Tag Archives: Malaysia

While the average traveler may not be familiar with the name, any SCUBA diving aficionado will tell you that Sipadan ranks as among the world’s best diving destinations. Rated consistently as top-5 dive sites, Sipadan will leave any traveler breathless. Both under water to experience the spectacular coral gardens, and coral reef teeming with over 3,000 species of marine life, and above water. Any water-bound activity you choose will put you in direct contact with sharks (yes, but there are of course good sharks and bad sharks!!), barracudas, hawksbill sea turtles and manta rays.

In the vicinity of Tioman Island lies another hidden gem of an island that’s brimming with beauty. Rawa Island (Pulau Rawa), a privately-owned island is enveloped by sugary-white sandy beaches and translucent waters reminiscent of the Aegean Sea.

There’s only one place to stay on Rawa, but the boat trip to uncover this pristine corner of paradise is certainly worth your time.

Langkawi Island A string of 99 islands south of Phuket in the Andaman Sea make up Langkawi. The island is a Duty Free Island, and was recently given Geopark status by UNESCO. Langkawi is the easiest to access of all the islands (40 mins direct flights from KL) with gorgeous sandy beaches. Boasting some of the most luxurious hotels, such as The Four Seasons, The Datai, Westin, The Andaman, Casa del Mar, and others. You’ll be spoilt for choice!

Tioman Islands The largest of Malaysia’s east coast islands, Tioman is famed for its soft, sandy beaches, warm waters and coral reef.

Most of the resorts are strung out on isolated bays along the western coast. Diving and snorkelling is excellent but also jungle hiking and sunbathing. Best luxury hotel is Japamala resort – to simply die for!

The resort that sits on Pangkor Laut Island steals the limelight from this idyllic tropical island. This island is more famous for the stunning resort that’s on it than the island itself. Pangkor Laut Resort ~ an ultra luxe resort that’s attracted the world’s celebrities and A-listers. The late Pavarrotti helped inaugurate it with an Operatic on its official opening day. Voted as best romantic hotel, best spa, best hotel in Malaysia – Pangkor Island Resort is the ideal romantic getaway.

This hotel on stilts was fashioned after Malay floating villages where fishermen live. For a truly outer-worldly experience, book yourself any treatment from the Spa. The Spa is situated in one of the over-the-water Villas. Close your eyes, it will just be you and the ocean, and the aroma of frangipani, lavender and jasmine wafting through the air. Pure Bliss!

Another diving hot spot in Terengganu, that’s not far from Perhentian.

One of the largest and most beautiful of the east coast islands, Redang is also the most developed. Redang Archipelago is made of 9 islands that together constitute a protected marine park. With crystal clear waters and some of Malaysia’s best coral reefs, the island offers excellent diving and snorkeling.

North East Terengganu of East Coast Malaysia is sublime. Pristine white sandy beaches and crystal clear blue waters that would make Leo (di Caprio) rethink twice of filming The Beach in Thailand.

Seriously unrivaled diving in the region, the two islands are dotted with rustic beach huts and has become the number one destination for beach lovers and backpackers around the world. The location is so amazing you’ll forgive for the lack of luxury hotels. Just suck it up and dive into paradise.